Ask Engadget: best sub-$500 laptop?

We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, then here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is from Joel, who has one eye on our archives and another on his wallet. If you're looking to ask one of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com.

"It's been a while since you had a Best Laptop under $500 question. I'd be curious to know what all of the Engadget readers would suggest?"

It certainly has, Joel, so let's throw this open to the bounty of real-world testers that we have in the Engadget community. If you've spent $500 on a laptop that you love, share the details in the comments section below.